Pyrenean fritillary Fritillaria pyrenaica

Water

Pyrenean Fritillary should be watered moderately during its growing season, which is typically in the spring when it is not dormant. Water the plant once a week, providing about a half-gallon of water each time. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged as overwatering can cause bulb rot. During the summer dormancy, reduce watering to encourage the plant to rest. It's essential to resume regular watering once you notice new growth in the following spring.

Light

The Pyrenean Fritillary thrives best in partial shade or dappled sunlight. It should be planted in a spot that mimics its native habitat, such as under deciduous trees where it can benefit from bright light without direct, harsh sunlight. Too much sun can scorch the leaves, while too little can inhibit flowering.

Temperature

Pyrenean Fritillary prefers cooler climates and thrives in temperatures ranging from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The bulbs require a period of winter chill to bloom properly and can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, prolonged exposure below this threshold may harm the plant. The ideal conditions are an environment that simulates its mountainous native terrain, including the cool nights and temperate days.

Pruning

Pruning is not typically necessary for the Pyrenean Fritillary as it is a bulbous plant. However, after blooming, you can remove the flower stalks, leaving the foliage to die back naturally. This allows the plant to redirect energy back into the bulb for the next season. The best time for any cleanup of spent foliage and stalks is in late summer, only when they have yellowed and withered away on their own.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pyrenean Fritillary thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a mix of sand, compost, and leaf mold. The ideal pH for this soil mix should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Pyrenean Fritillary bulbs should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate bulb growth. It's best to repot after the foliage has died back.

Humidity & Misting

Pyrenean Fritillary does best in moderate humidity levels common in mountainous regions. Slightly higher humidity levels mimic its natural habitat, but stagnant, damp air should be avoided.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and cool temperatures for indoor Pyrenean Fritillary.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part shade, well-drained soil; shield from harsh midday sun.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Pyrenean Fritillary (Fritillaria pyrenaica) begins with seed germination which occurs in late spring to early summer, and requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. The germinated seeds give rise to a small bulb, which initially produces only a single leaf but will develop into a mature bulb after a few years. Once mature, the bulb sends up a flower stem in late spring, typically bearing a single bell-shaped, brownish-purple flower marked with yellow. After pollination by insects, the flower develops into a capsule containing seeds that are dispersed by wind or gravity. The plant then goes into a period of dormancy during the summer, with the bulb lying inactive underground. In the subsequent growing seasons, the plant continues this cycle, with the bulb growing larger and potentially producing more stems and flowers.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Fritillaria pyrenaica, commonly known as Pyrenean fritillary, is often propagated from bulbs, which is the most popular method. The best time to plant the bulbs is in the fall, ideally when the temperatures start to cool down but before the ground freezes. This timing allows the bulbs to establish roots before the winter. Gardeners should plant the bulbs at a depth of about 3 inches (approximately 7.5 centimeters) in well-drained soil, with the pointed end facing upwards. It is important to space the bulbs about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 centimeters) apart to give each bulb enough room to grow. The bulbs require a period of cold dormancy to bloom in the spring successfully, and once planted, they will generally require little additional care other than ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.